Abstract

This study examined relationships between executive functioning (EF) and ADHD/ASD symptoms in 339 6–8 year-old children to characterise EF profiles associated with ADHD and ADHD + ASD. ADHD status was assessed using screening surveys and diagnostic interviews. ASD symptoms were measured using the Social Communication Questionnaire, and children completed assessments of EF. We found the EF profile of children with ADHD + ASD did not differ from ADHD-alone and that lower-order cognitive skills contributed significantly to EF. Dimensionally, ASD and inattention symptoms were differentially associated with EF, whereas hyperactivity symptoms were unrelated to EF. Differences between categorical and dimensional findings suggest it is important to use both diagnostic and symptom based approaches in clinical settings when assessing these children’s functional abilities.

Brassett-Harknett, A., & Butler, N. (2007). Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: An overview of the etiology and a review of the literature relating to the correlates and lifecourse outcomes for men and women.
Clinical Psychology Review,27(2), 188–210.
PubMedCrossRef

Wei, T., Chesnut, S. R., Barnard-Brak, L., & Richman, D. (2015). Psychometric Analysis of the Social Communication Questionnaire using an item-response theory framework: Implications for the use of the lifetime and current forms.
Journal of Psychopathology and Behavioral Assessment,37(3), 469–480.
CrossRef